class descriptions
Have a browse and click on each image to learn more about the respective dance or class style.
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Kids & Youth Levels
Baby Ballet +
Interactive classes for parents and little ones to spend some creative time together discovering and learning in a guided class setting. Absolutely no skills or experience required, an easy going introduction to movement and music for parents and children to enjoy together. A particularly valuable interlude to the busy at home day and a delightful way to engage and relate with other parents and children, supporting one another through creative development.
Junior +
This level is suitable for students aged approximately 7 to 9yrs. Classes in this level will be structured to build a strong technical foundation as well as focusing on the development of musicality, artistry, learning and remembering sequences and most importantly having fun!
There is no prerequisite for dancers to take classes in this level, teachers will assist any students new to dancing as needed and challenge those with more experience.
Intermediate +
This level is suitable for students aged approximately 10 to 12yrs. In a live video setting some prior dance experience and knowledge is preferable, however we are happy to have new dancers join in and teachers will make sure to break things down and modify more complicated steps/sequences.
Also suitable for junior aged dancers with more experience and in need of a challenge- if you are unsure just ask and we will help you out.
Senior +
This level is suitable for students aged 13yrs and upwards. Designed for older and more experienced youth students who have been dancing for a few years. If new to dancing please let us know and we can certainly accommodate and teachers will adapt and slow down when necessary.
This level is open to students up to 18yrs however students aged 15yrs + also have the option of attending classes in our Open age range.
Open Adult Levels
Introductory +
This level is suitable for absolute beginners. There is no prerequisite to attend and no assumed knowledge of dance, posture or technique in any style including pilates.
Classes in this level are designed to introduce students safely and in a supported manner to the basic aspects of dance and/or pilates etc. Intro classes will be taught at a slower pace with broken down explanations and plenty of opportunity to ask questions. Everyone is welcome to attend and work at a friendly pace learning together.
Beginner +
This level is suitable for those who have a basic knowledge and understanding of dance/pilates. Prior experience and training is preferable or a background in movement with an understanding of posture etc.
Classes in this level will be basic and build on the foundations established in the introductory level, working to progress to more complex sequences and expand on the initial vocabulary of steps and dance/pilates terms. Also suitable for more experienced dancers wishing to rehab or work at a slower pace.
Intermediate +
This level assumes previous dance/pilates experience and knowledge. An understanding of steps, sequences and class structure is necessary for this level. Classes will move at a faster pace with less explanations of steps and sequences. Intermediate level classes will work to progress technique and skills whilst developing artistry and musicality.
Suitable for adult students who have been dancing for several years and senior youth students of a more advanced level.
Advanced +
This level is for pre-professional or professional level dancers/those with a sound knowledge of the pilates method. Advanced level classes will be delivered at a faster pace with complex steps and sequences. Classes in this level are aimed at those with previous professional experience, those currently at a professional level or dancers at a high level of training perhaps looking to a career in dance.
Open to ages 15yrs and up. Ballet classes at an advanced level may be taken en pointe ONLY by students who regularly take classes en pointe and if the environment is safe to do so. This assessment is to be made by students/parents and is not the responsibility of BWA. Please be careful!
Ballet
Classical ballet classes led by experienced teachers with a background in professional dance. Specific classes for a wide range of ages and levels with a focus on technique, artistry, musicality and most importantly…...enjoyment!
Join a class suited to your level whether you have never danced before or you are at a professional level; considered classes structured to benefit all participants in a safe and supportive manner led by passionate teachers eager to assist you on your journey!
Contemporary
With a strong classical basis, contemporary dance strays from the conventions of the classical form to create new and innovative movements. Free flowing and forgiving, contemporary dance has a multitude of different styles and aspects embraced differently by each individual artist, choreographer and student. Try a contemporary class and find a teacher whose style resonates with your own movements or challenge yourself with something a bit different!
Pilates
Pilates is an exercise and conditioning method developed by Joseph Pilates as an art of controlled movement. With a modified range of difficulties from beginner right through to advanced level which is suitable for elite athletes or dancers. Pilates focuses on improving endurance, flexibility, strength, alignment, stability and coordination. The benefits of pilates can be felt by participants right across the spectrum. Our qualified instructors will guide you through a workout suited to your level and for the goals you aim to achieve. Join a group session or work privately with a program tailored to your specific needs.
Pointe
Perhaps considered the pinnacle of classical ballet by aspiring dancers, pointe work is done in specially designed shoes to support dancers in a full range of movements performed on their toes. Elegant and graceful, pointe work is executed after years of training and requires exceptional strength and skill.
Pointe work is only undertaken by dancers of a certain level with suitable strength and in a safe environment. BWA does not provide pre-pointe assessments nor advocate dancers to take up pointe work on their own. Anyone is welcome to take our pre-pointe strengthening classes (done without pointe shoes) with a view to strengthening in preparation for pointe work, however we ask that only dancers who have experience en pointe participate in any actual pointe work.
Please note: as with all classes, consider your environment carefully before undertaking any pointe work to avoid the risk of injury!
Variations
Experience the world of classical ballet through the exploration of the classical repertoire. Learn solos from some of the most famous classical ballets as well as some of the lesser known yet equally delightful! Variations are a great way to really “dance” to beautiful music while applying techniques you have been working on.
Variation classes are primarily for dancers who have experience and a strong classical technique unless the specified class is for beginners (in which case the variations will be modified accordingly). Variations are solos performed by professional dancers but can be enjoyed by many if attempted under the guidance of careful instruction and in a safe and cautious manner.
Hip Hop
Born from the street culture of the 1970’s, hip hop dance has evolved and diversified to become the popular style it is today. Synonymous with hip hop dance music and popularised during the 1990’s and 2000’s hip hop dance consists of three main elements including breaking, popping and locking!
Join a beginners hip hop class and learn the fundamentals or get creative and broaden your skills with new ideas and choreography in an advanced class while you enjoy moving and expressing in this unique dance style with other like-minded movers!
Musical Theatre
Musical Theatre combines singing, acting and dancing! Often undertaken as a dance style on it’s own, musical theatre is an interactive, exciting genre with a strong narrative component conveyed through its various aspects.
Set the scene and try a musical theatre class! Employ your best dramatic skills as you sing and dance your heart out with our charismatic and talented teachers.
With classes for beginners all the way through to experienced performers, musical theatre is for everyone!
Jazz
Jazz is an ever popular style of dance that has many offshoots and sub-genres. The emergence of jazz dance stems from African American roots, originally characterised by polyrhythm and improvisation. Initially linked with jazz and swing styles of music, these days jazz dancing has become far more diverse and is constantly evolving.
If you love to move to music then jazz is for you - our enthusiastic teachers will help you feel the rhythm and explore the jazz genre from a basic level all the way through to advanced. Learn the particular nuances of the styles of famous choreographers like Matt Mattox, Jerome Robbins, Bob Fosse and more or develop your own style and get creative!
Tap
Tap is a unique style of dance providing its own accompaniment with the percussive sounds created by the use of tap shoes!
Don’t be deterred by a lack of shoes, you can tap to your heart's content in sneakers and familiarise yourself with the movements and style before investing in taps!
Tap has a high focus on rhythm and musicality, often with a strong improvisation component as well. Try a tap class with our wonderful tap teachers who are eager to get beginners going and enjoy some group tapping with the more advanced students!
Stretch and Strength
The perfect start to the week, join in for a pre-work lengthening and strengthening session! We will ease into our bodies preparing our minds for the day ahead. Suitably timed to fit in around your working hours or simply as a great start to the day. This session will focus on making our bodies feel great and function well generally and to compliment dance training.